W4^- 

HELOISE 




OR 



The Unrhvealed Secret. 



-A. :M:EijO-r)is-A-:M:-A. 



IN FIVE ACTS. 



Dramatized from a Novel of that name by 
WILLIAM O. LESLIE. 

PHILADELPHIA, 
1882. 




HELOISE, 



OR, 



THE UNREVEALED SECRET. 



— IN — 



FIVE ACTS. 



^CT I. 



PHILADELPHIA. 



.CV; 






i^-OPWA^i-lHAG-^^^t'^ 



1882. 



HELOISE; 

OR, 

THE UNREVEALED SECRET. 



CHARACTERS IN ACT I: 
Characters. Dress. 

HELOISE. — Travelling Dress, with wrap. 

ISABELLA. — Evening Dress, with costume. 

MADAME VON PALLWITZ— Black Silk, with cap. 

LIZETTE.— A servant, hair in braids. 

FELIX— Count von Waldeck, full dress. 

BARON VON BONHERST.— Half dress. 

BARON ALTMAN.— Half dress. 
SERVANT.— (ma/«,) in livery, with salver. 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1882, by 

W. O. LESLIE, 

In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. 



AC T I 



SCENE I — Drawing room in the house of Madame von Pollwitz — C. D. 
Fancy 3rd groove boxed with door L. 3 E. window R. 3 E. Set fire place. 
R. 2 E. with practical fire, backed by hallway. Very handsome furni- 
ture. Sideboard in left corner of stage dressed very elaborate, with 
wine decanters, goblets, glasses, napkins, etc. Two small flower stands, 
one on each side of C. D. back of centre door a gas fixture. Handsome 
circular ottoman C. Table L. with chair each side, large arm ehair in 
front of fire. (Madame Pollwitz discovered seated in arm-chair in 
front of fire-place R. reading book.) 

Madame P. — Well, I have just finished reading this 
book. Sketches of the lives and characters of the reigning 
Princesses of Waldeck and it carries me back in thought to 
the time when I was in good standing at the Courtof Arolson, 
where I would yet be except for that fatal marriage between 
Count Stedan and the Princess Antonia. That unfortunate 
affair caused the Princess, Countess Amelia Stedan and my- 
self, to be expelled. It was unjust on the part of the reigning 
Prince to treat us so harshly, for we were entirely innocent 
of having anything to do with bringing about the marriage. 

(Enter servant (7.) 

Servant. — Madame I {Presents salver with card,) 

Madame P- — Countess Heloise von Waldeck ! Bring the 
lady here. (Exit servant 0.) (Excited.) Heloise ! At last 
I shall see the child of my dear departed friend Amelia. 

(Music P.P., until Heloise is well on stage.) 

(Enter servant bowing in Heloise and Lisette C.D.L. 
Madame P. Runs to Heloise embraces her, and then examines 
her attentively.) It is not the face and form of her mother, 
my Amelia, but I am sure her heart is there, 

Heloise. — (Sadly) Friend of the loved departed one — 



11 



Madanie von P. — Do not give way to your emotion, my 
child, time will bring you consolation. It is the course of 
nature that mothers die before their children. ( Turning to 
the servant.) Bring in the young lady's baggage, show the 
maid her room : Assist her as far as you can, and when you 
have finished go and let Count Von Waldeck know that his 
sister Countess Heloise has arrived. 

Lisotte. — Ah, Madame, begging your pardon, please let 
the young gentleman go to young master before we take up 
the things. My young lady has been half crazy with im- 
patience all the way. 

Madame von P. — {To servant) Attend to the lady's 
baggage {to Lisette.) You can go with the servant and see 
that everything is arranged properly. I will inform the 
Count of the Countess' arrival myself. {Exit Lisette and 
servant G. D,) (Embraces Holoise.) Ah, my dear child, 
how happy I am to see yon, and I am sure your brother Felix 
will be perfectly delighted. 

Heloise. — ^As he does not know we are coming to-day, it 
would be a mere accident if be is in, (aside) how ardently I 
hope he is. 

Madame von P. — M j daughter Isabella Von Bonhurst 
is with me, she has been married several years, as you 
probably know. She is going to a party in the neighborhood 
this evening, and c ime in to see me, for a few momenti, on 
her way there. I will r^o and bring her here, and at the same 
time inform your brother of you/ arrival. (Kisses Heloise 
and exits, set door L.) 

Heloise — (SoZieo^msiny) .Felix, my Felix! At length 
I shall see you again ! After such a long painful separation — 
one whole year — we are again to meet ; and what a disclosure 
I have to make to you. What a secret you must hear. — How 
will you receive it ? Will it startle you ? Will you rejoice at 
it? No! You will not rejoice, you cannot^ for however 
much you love me, and in whatever relationship I shall stand 
to you in future, I fear in my inmost heart you never can be 
to me more than you have hitherto seemed. My friend, my 
brother ! By whatever name I may wish to call you, that of 
brother will always be to me the dearest, for was not that the 
first by which I learned to love you ? I cannot tell you the 
secret now, for you might misconstrue my motives. 



{Enter Madame von P. and Isabella D. L.^ Heloise C, 
Isabella L. Madame von P, B, Isabella greeting Heloise and 
Kissing her. 

Isabella — .(Approaching Heloise, kisses her) Have I not 
the right to grow proud of my prophetic powers ? This 
morning my little finger foretold me that you would come 
to day, in spite of the assurance to the contrary of your 
brother Felix whom sympathy ought to have taught better, 
But these men are too grossly organized for such delicate 
things. 

Heloise. — My brother I presume does not expect me 
to-day. 

Isabella. — He had the idea fixed in his head this morning 
that you would not come until to-morrow. Do send for him 
Mamma, he cannot have gone yet. He is probably just in 
the midst of his toilet. Your arrival. Countess, gives him an 
excellent pretext to absent himself from a party from which 
he could not, reasonably at least, expect anything but a 
stupid evening and a sleepless night* 

Madame von Poll Witz.* — Is your husband to be there, 

Isabella ? 

Isabella. — (with indifference.) I cannot say. I have 
not seen him since yesterday noon. You know very well that 
is nothing new. He did not come home last night till two 
hours past midnight. I was asleep, and this morning when I 
arose he was not yet awake. Nothing whatever can keep me 
from my morning walk with the children and when I returned 
he had gone to hife office. He dines I understand to-day at 

the Russian Embassador's, or at President Retzers, or I 

am sure I don't know where, ^nd dear mother, with all repect 
to you, I care but little. 

(Enter Felix. C. D. L. — Lively music until Felix is well 
on the stage. Heloise utters a loud scream, Feli:s. clasps her in 
his arms.) 

Felix.. — My own dear girl, you have come at last I Have 
I got you again, my darling little sister, (Kisszs her.) You 
are well I hope. And do you love me as much as ever ? 

Felix. — (Bowing.) Pardon me, ladies. 

Isabella. — With all my heart. I assure you that none of 



your civilities ever pleased me so much as this incivlity: 
Come Mamma, I have something to tell you, at auy rate, we 
are are quite superfluous here. 

{Exit Madame and Isabella. D. L.) 

H6loiS6- — Felix, the moment of our meeting is truly not 
one of joy alone. 

Felix* — Ah, Heloise, do not think me unfeeling, if I 
rejoice more in present happiness than grieve in past mis- 
fortune. 

HeloisO- — Past misfortune, my dear brother ! the death 
of a mother, a beloved one, is never a past misfortune unless, 
only a moment of separation can be called so. The continued 
longing for those we have lost — missing them everywhere — 
these are present sufferings, and such as last during the whole 
life. 

Felix. — You are right, sister, it is a great misfortune that 
we have lost our dear good mother, our best friend, our wisest 
counsellor. I have shed many tears for her, and I shall 
never think of her without the deepest emotion. But — let 
me be frank as always — I cannot help it if I think of her less 
than I did six months ago. I cannot help it if I am happy 
once more. Dear Heloise ; happier than ever — indescribably 
happy ! I am sure our sainted mother will forgive 
me. And now too you are with me again, you dear faithful 
little sister. 

{Enter Isabella, Z>. R.) 

Isabella* — it is time for me to go, and I must get 
my shawl and gloves. I left them on the table. 

Felix. — {Startling, looking at his watch.) So late already ? 

Isabella* — Of course you are absolved from party obliga- 
tions for this evening, my dear Waldeck, I will take your ex- 
cuse to the Chamberlain. 

Felix — You are very kind, (embarraised,) But it 
would not do very well for me to stay away entirely, 

Isabella. — What an idea? You are not going to leave 
your sister alone, the very evening of her arrival, I hope ? 



Felix — My sister wants rest. She is tired, I shall 
not go before 10 o'clock when it will be time lor her to retire. 

Isabella* — How considerate. Your sister tired? (goes to 
Heloise, looks in her face,) look at her. Is there fatigue in 
those eyes ? (Laughing) Waldeck, please give a little more 
plausable reason. 

Felix. — My connections. — 

Isabella. — Your ^* connections." — That sounds suspi- 
cious. I should like to know what secret ^* connections" you 
have with our courtiers, Sir Secretary of the Legation. 

Felix. — I have refused several . invitations from that 
family ; if I should be missed to-night. 

Isabella. — Missed I (Laughing) — Waldeck are you pro- 
vincial or vain ? At such assemblies where crowds intermi- 
ngle, individuals are not missed. Therefore be unconcerned, 
my dear sir, I will excuse you, (in a mirthful manner,) If 
any one asks for you. 

Felix. — My dear Baroness, I very much dislike putting 
you to any trouble, I shall make my appearance in per- 
son at 10 o'clock. 

Isabella. — Very well, if you will deemyourself indispen- 
sible. ( To Heloise.) As for you, my dear Countess, I wish 
you a better night than I will have. When your love for a 
brother leaves you time to notice any one beside him, I shall 
endeavor to obtain your friendship, which in my opinion is 
an invaluable treasure, and I feel that I have the means of 
winning it. (kisses Heloise.) {To Felix) — Au revoir Monsi- 
eur^ (Aith a graceful courtesy.) 

(Exit G. D. B.) 

Heloise. — A very charming woman. 

Felix. — Very sensible and clever, if she only would not 
make good her superiority by that disagreeable tutoring tone 
which she so often assumes, especiall}^ towards 3^oung men. 

Heloise — But dear Felix, is it so absolutelj^ necessary 
that you should go the part}' to-night ? 



8 

Felix. — If you wish nie to stay with you longer Heloise, 
I will do so with all my heart. 

Heloise. — No, no, Felix, go of course if it gives you 
pleasure. 

Felix. — There is no idea of pleasure in the case. It 
will be a very tiresome affair, I only thought it would prop- 
ably be better for you to retire early. 

Heloise. — Yes, dear Felix, do go, I will see j^ou again 
to-morrow, besides — 

Felix. — And every day dear, but if you want me to 
stay — 

Heloise. — No indeed, do go, but first tell me, does the 
young baroness Isabella live happily with her husband ? 

Felix. — He has the name of being a drnnkerd, and is in 
all respects an intolerable fellow ; shallow, cold, indifferent 
and so, they say, faithless to his wife. 

{Enter Madame von P. D, L, sits on chair R, of table L,) 

Madame von P. — My dear young friends your 
presence here to-night reminds me of old times 
when Felix's mother, then Countess Amelie Sted- 
on, was at Court, in attendance on the young Prin- 
cess Antonia. I could tell you so many anecdotes that 
would interest you, but they would relate only to the time 
previous to my marriage, for shortly after that event I re- 
moved from the Capitol came to m}" present residence, 
and did not return often. Several years later I visited the 
Court and was delighted with the ripened beauty of the Prin- 
cess Antonia. Just at that time the young Countess Stedan 
was married to Count Von Waldock, who was considerably 
her senior, but a very excellent and rich man. At this wed- 
ding Count Stedan, the brother of the bride, a proud stately 
officer, who had taken an active part in the late war and dis- 
tinguished himself highly in the field, made his appearance at 
court, was appointed Chamberlain, and shortly thereafter 
secretly married the Princess Antonia. I have since heard 
much about a Russian Central Stedan who signalized himself 
in the wars with the Turks and Circassians. Probably he 
is your uncle. If so, I suppose that while he has received 
new wounds, the old ones of his heart have been healed. 



Felix. — He is indeed our uncle, about whom the papers 
have had so mueh to say. Our mother mentioned him but 
seldom, but when she did, it was with the warmest affection. 
I remember him very well. He was an ardent, noble looking 
man, and when I call to mind his energetic, warlike appear- 
ance I can hardly understand what induced him to accept the 
post of Chamberlain. There was something strange in the 
whole affair. When I saw him, he showed very plainly that, 
although a native, he thought everything at the Court of his 
Prince too limited. I knew but little more about it. Mother 
always maintained a strict silence, but not however, I should 
think towards Heloise, for I notice she is sitting there with 
a crimson face and her eyes on the ground. 

Madame von P. — We will not trouble her with in- 
quiries. 

(Exit Madame von 8. D, G.) 

FeliX- — (Looking at his watch.) Bless me, it is almost 
10 o'clock. 

Heloise- — Is is not time for you to go, brother ? 

Felix. — Are you tired, Heloise ? 

Heloise. — No— and still — yes, I am tired. I shall soon 
ask Madame to excuse me. But brother you will be too late 
if you stay longer. 

Felix. — Oh, I am in no hury. I shall be there in 
time.Tr-(Heloise.) But I may as well go now. — Good night, 
my darling one. (Kisses her hand.) 

Heloise. — Good night, dear brother (^xit Felix C. D). 
He ought not to have gone, but am I not unjust in blaming 
him ? Here in this city — at Court, it is not as with us in the 
country where every one can follow the dictates of one's own 
heart. How cordial, how affectionate he was towards me — just 
the same as ever. Should I not rejoice that he is happy, and 
am I not happy with him ? I am fatigued with the journey, 
and will ask Madame Vol Howwitz to allow me to retire. To- 
morrow in a quiet hour I will tell him about Waldeck, repeat 
what I have already written him, then, perhaps, he will ask the 
question I have so long expected — whether his mother left 
documents for him. I'll give him the paper — and — he will 
know all. Then — then — we will see what will follow. With 



10 

these pleasant thoughts and a heart full of hope, I will sleep 
soundly ard sweetly. 

{Exit L. I. E.) {Laugh outside C. Enter C, D. L,, Von Bon- 
hurst and Baron Altmon, they sit at table L.^ which contains 
bottle of wine and glasses. 

Von B. — Now, my good friend, you promised to tell me 
something of the history of my wife's ifamily, and, as you have 
been about the Court for a quarter of a century, acting as both 
receiving and p^ijmg teller of all gossip, honor my check for 
an amount sufficient to inform me. Who is this Count Felix 
von Waldeck and the charming 3"oung lady, the Countess 
Heloise, who have been lateh^ made so welcome in our family 
circle? Take a glass of wine, Baron, to brighten up your 
ideas and stimulate your memory. 

BEron A. — ^Well, as I made you the promise, I will not 
break it. ( Taking a glass of wine,) In one of the most beauti- 
ful regions of Germany, there lived, some time ago, a widow 
called Amelia von Waldeck, she spent her entire time in the 
education of a lovely child, a boy. She lived in retire- 
ment with her son, this Felix, because she had been banished 
from the Court. The old, then reigning Prince, had an only 
daughter, the Princess Antonia, whose rejection of every 
suitor offering himself had long been a source of vexation to 
h^r father. Finally the old Prince discovered, through some 
source to me unknown, that the Princess had about four years 
before been secretl}^ married to her chamberlain, Count 
Stedan, and that the Count's sister, Countess Amelia Stedan. 
afterwards the widow Amelia von Waldeck, Felix's mother, 
had been the confident of the whole affair. Count Stedan 
escaped the displeasure of his sovereign by leaving the 
country, he went to Russia, entered the army there to seek 
death. But, behold, he found honor and fame, was promoted 
to and now occupies a high position in the Russian army. 

Von B. — (Offering glass of wine,) Take another glass, 
to brighten up your ideas and stimulate your memory. 

Baron A. — (Drinks wine.) The Princess Antonia met 
her father's fury with respectful firmness, often said 
that she had never been a mother, snd the old Prince, in his 
wrath, declared the marriage void, and allowed her to lament 
the absence of her late husband at a country seat in the 



11 

vicinit}^ of the Capitol. She showed her father letters 
which contained indubitable proof that her friends had not ap- 
proved of her marriage with the Count Stedan, but had done 
all in their power to prevent it, and that the marriage had 
actually taken place without their knowledge. It was all in 
vain, however, the old Prince was immovable, and the widow 
von Waldeck and Madame von PoUwitz retired to their own 
estate, the former to the one which her husband had left to his 
little son Felix, whose guardian she was, and she and Madame 
von Pollwittz were forbidden to appear at court, again. 

Von Bon. — Ha, ha, and this is the origin of Sir Eelix 
the accredited and especial friend of Madame von Pollwitz. 
Now let me hear something of the beautiful 3-0 ang Countess 
Heloise, who receives such a super-abundance of attention and 
flattery. But first take another glass of wine to brighten up 
your ideas and stimulate j^our memory. {Both drink.) 

Baron A, — Notwithstanding, the widow, Amelia von 
Waldeck bestowed her time and attention on the education of 
her son Felix. She found time to visit many of her old 
friends with whom she had associated before she was banished 
from court, and, it was said, kept up secret correspondence 
with them all. 

0x1 her return from one of these visits she brought with 
her and presented to her son Felix a little girl, telling him that 
she was his sister. She said to some of her neighbors that the 
two children would never learn different until the}" arrived^at 
the 3^ears of maturit}^ The child was named Heloise, but 
► who were her parents always remained a mystery, to the out- 
side world. 

Von B. — Bravo, bravo. The mystery which has so 
long surrounded these two is now cleared up, and you have 
m}^ thanks. Although I have made many eftbrts to learn their 
origin I was never successful. Madame von Pollwitz, you 
know, cannot be approached on family matters, and my wife, 
the Baroness Isabella, is — is — well, she is a Wfman, and they 
never have much to say. For m}^ own part, I am not what 
might be termed a general favorite in the famil}-. I some- 
times think they might get along without me, and doubtless 
they are of the same opinion. (Both rise and come to centre,^ 

Well, I have little fortune with which to splurge, less 
beauty, no exalted pretensions, and ^ ery few expectations — 



12 

all of weich is propltiioiis to the appetite, condusive to sleep, 
productive of good humor, and I'll say, with old William 
Snakespeare, " Let the wide world wag as it will, I'll be gay 
and happy still." {Offers arm to Baron.) 

Both Exit (7. L. si?iging.) I will be gay, etc. 

{Enter Ileloise followed by Lisette L. I. E,) 

Haloise. — Bless me it must- be long af^er midnight, 
Madame von Poliwitz has been entertaining me so well by 
relating incidents of her early life, when she was at court, 
that I have almost forgotten my fatigue. Now Lisette, you 
may retire, 1 shall not need you any more to-night. 

Lisette. — {Starts to exit D. L, when knock outside C. stops 
her^ she goes and opens C. D, when Felix enters (7. L. 

Heloise- — My dear Felix, back so soon. {Kissing him,) 
But dearest brother, how you look. What has happened? 
You appear pale and disturbed. 

Feix. — Nothing at all ; I onlj^ came home, I wanted to 
speak to you. 

Heloise. — Have 3 ou so soon returned from the party ? 

Felix. — Yes, I wished to see you before you would re- 
tire, and besides, I had a good man}^ things on my mind 
which would not let me sleep if I had tried. 

Heloise. — {In an affectionate manner,) Why what is it 
that troubles you, brother ? 

Felix. — Leave us^ Lisette, (Exit LiseiteL, 3 E,) Now, 
my dear sister, don't be frightened. It is not natural that 
after so long a separation we should have much to say to each 
other that it is not necessary for servants to hear. 

Heloise. — You are right, {In a serious manner,) Sit 
down here by me {pointing to a so/a), we have indeed much to 
tell each other. {Aside) the moment has now come ; he must 
learn that I am — no I will not say it yet, unless he asks for 
documents. ( They sit down in silence for a few moments.) 
Felix, do our thoughts meet at this moment ? 
Felix— Hardly. 



13 

HeloiSO* — Have you no questions to ask me about the 

the past ^t 

Felix. — Questions enough, but my heart is now so full 
that 1 must unburden it before I admit anything more into it. 
Heloise, I have something to conMe to you. 

HelOise* — Something to confide — ^}^ou too ? 

Felix. — I too ? Heloise has perhaps a similar secret on 
her mind. 

Heloise* — A similar one ? How can 1 know of what na- 
ture yours is. It is true I have a great deal to tell you, how 
can it be otherwise, since the most important events of my 
life occurred since 1 last saw you. 

Felix. — Heloise, do not doubt that it is of equal import- 
ance to me ; but our beloved mother will forgive if, before I 
call upon you to relate the sad story of her death, I relieve 
my heart of a secret which has weighed me down for several 
weeks past* I have not yet communicated it to you, my own 
Heloise, to you, who have the first right to my confidence, 

Heloise, — {Asido) is it possible, can he know my 
secret already ? 

Felix. — Dearest Heloise {putting his arms around her), 
it seemed as if I hurt your feelings by the words ** I am 
happier than ever, I cannot help it." I will add I am often 
more unhappy than I ever expected to be. You cannot mis- 
understand me when you have heard my confession — I am — 
in love. {Heloise tears herself away in violence from the 
arms of Felix.) I love with all the passion and fervor of 
which my heart is capable ; the most charming, fascinating 
creature under the sun, and what is more I am so fortunate 
as to know that my love is returned with equal tenderness. 
The unspeakable bliss of this assurance causes me to overlook 
all the obstacles which stand in the way of our union. 

Heloise* — ( With emotion and tembling voice.) Tell me 
all. 

Felix. — I must remove all obstacles ; to do that is my 



14 

firm resolution, for there is no happiness for me but in the 
possession of my sweet charming Emma. 

HeIoiS6. — Emma 1 Is that her name ? 

Felix. — Emma von Willingen. Oh, my dear Heloise, 
what a lovely enchanting creature ; you and she will — ^you 
must be friends. She has long known of you and loved you, 
for you have often been the subject of our conversation. She 
wanted to know everyiliing about you, even the color of your 
eyes. The most irresistable, most transporting little creature 
under the sun. 

HeloiS6 — Have you known her long ? 

Helix. — It is just eight weeks to-day since I saw her 
for the first time. She came out of a church before which I 
was standing with several friends and acquaintances. A crowd 
of poor people of every description surrounded the church 
door. She stopped, compassionately, spoke a kind word to 
each one, divided the contents of her purse among them, and at 
last, when she had nothing left, she gave the delicate little 
purse itself to an old man who had just come up. I heard her 
say with her silvery voice, '^ Sell it, good father, I worked it 
myself." But hardly had a pair of swift horses, which were 
waiting the devine girl, conveyed her away, before I sprang 
forward and gave the old man a large sum for the purse. I 
took it away with me intending to use it for charitable pur- 
poses ; but when I met Emma again, and she grew dearer 
and dearer to me, I feared that use would wear out the little 
love token, and I have since w^orn it next my heart. 

Heloise — When and where did you see her again ? 

Peix. — As the brilliant belle of a ball, where homage was 
paid to her, and where her charms outshone all others. I had 
only to see her dance — the little zeph^^r.like sylph — to be 
completely enchanted. On this occasion, too, I found reason 
to hope that I was not indifferent to her, and soon after ac- 
quired the blissful certainty that she loved me. 

Heloise.— So soon ? 

PeliX- — Dear sister, love cares not for watch and alma- 
nac. It makes its own laws for time and hours. The look 



15 

directed by Cupid and understood b}^ his disciple, reveals 
more than a whole eternity could otherwise teach. Emma, 
affectionate as she is, has often done her best to keep up this 
certainty within me, but she is so much the object of admira- 
tion and w^orship by others, that my heart is continually 
tortured by the sharp, pangs of jealousy. I was on her account 
that I had to go to the party, for no other reason would I 
haA^e left you so soon after our meeting. She alone could sup- 
plant you. 

Heloiso. — Did she know that you would be there? 

Felix. — She knew I was going there and she let me know 
her intentions of so doing. I might have given up the pleas- 
ure of seeing her on your account, but to brave her anger, you 
see (smiling), your proud tyrannical Felix, who so often 
abused your patience, 3 ou little gentle dove, is transformed 
into a poor humbled slave. Her smile makes me the happiest 
of men ; her displeasure the most wretched. 

Heioise. — Do you see her often ? 

Pelix. — Yesterday she had expected me three hours be- 
fore I came, when she had not a single smile for me. She 
beamed with beauty and loveliness, but it seem to be only for 
a circle of fops and impudent coxcombs who surrounded her, 
but at last, reaching her side, I reproached her, she gave me 
the bitterest words in return; but, knowing I was in fault, 1 
begged her pardon, and she has the sweetest and most grace- 
ful way of forgiving. 

But, Heioise, you said you had a secret? 

Heioise. — Ah, well, it is no matter now, my secret is 
not so very important, but we can find a more suitable time to 
speak of it. I do assure you (with bitterness) it is not a love- 
story. 

PeiX. — Emma lives with her grand-father, to whom 
every visit is a bore except when two super-annuated com- 
rades of his come to take a game of whist. I can only see her 
at parties, theatres or concerts. Alone, I can only see her 
when I escort her home from these places, and then, be as- 
sured we take many a circuitous route. 

Heioise. — ( With astonishment) Does she attend parties 
and places of amusement alone ? 



16 

Pelix. — She goes under the protection of friends some- 
times of one, sometimes of another, but she is not very inti- 
mate with any of them. She has been so exceedingly kind as 
to propose to me, that we might meet in one of the public 
gardens at a time when it was not much frequented, but 
trembling for her reputation, I had the forbearance to refuse. 
But, dear little sister, you will see her 'and you and she will 
be friends. It is for this I longed for your arrival. 

Heloise. — {With indignation,) Wh}^ should I be the 
friend of one to whom I am an utter stranger? Eelix, why 
do you not act in this affair as an honorable man should act ? 
Of what use is all this secret? What prevents you from going 
directly to Emma's grand parents and asking them for her 
hand, as 3^ou are so desparately in love? Is it likely they 
would give vou a re fusal ? 

Felix. — Ah, that is just what I fear, for Emma has been 
engaged since her fourteenth year, betrothed to her cousin, 
sixteen years her senior. She knows him only from her child- 
hood recollection, for he has spent eleven years in travelling. 
This betrothal is intended as a family compromise, to settle a 
law-suit. This lovely creature is to be sacrificed to secure the 
peace and comfort of her grand parents. 

Heloise. — If such is the true state of trings no real love 
can be expected on either side, and perhaps the cousin, if he 
was informed of Emma's sentiments, could be induced to sur- 
render his claiins. 

Felix. — That is my chief ground of hope. There is a 
sort of a condition in the contract, about not leaving Emma^s 
feelings wholly unconsulted. But nothing can be done before 
the cousin's return, and for the present I suppose I must 
be satisfie I with seeing Emma in secret. {Starting.) But 
tell me first will 3^ou call on Emma ? 

Heloise.— ( Confusedly.) Well— perhaps— not to-day 
— ^may be {hesitatingly) — some day. 

Felix.— Until dinner— good by. {He attempts to em- 
brace and kiss her cheek, but she prevents it, and accompany- 
ing him to the door bids him adieu. • 



n 

{Exit Felix, G. D.) 

Tremolo music. P. P. varying with music until curtain. 

Heloise. — (Sinking uy on the aof a, burying her face in 
the cushions; for a short time giving away to a flood of tears 
— rises greatly agitated?) 

Oh, My mother — my mother, why did you leave me here? 
Why did you not take me with j'ou to your beautiful spirit 
home — What is now to become of me — I am alone — No friend. 
None to love me in the wide, wide world. Is the balance of my 
Use to be but a troubled dream ? Injured affection — wounded 
pride. The consciousness of lonliness. How these painful 
feelings, in rapid succession, chace each other through my 
mind, and what a miserable being they make me. But poor 
Felix ! into what worthless hands has your heart fallen. This 
girl, Emma, distributes a few alms in the presence of a crowd 
of young men whose eyes are fixed upon her, and {contempt- 
ously) what affectation about that purse. Why could she not 
have told the old man to go to her house, the proper place to 
give him assistance. How ridiculous to tell him that she had 
made it herself. Any one mast be entirely blind who could 
not perceive that the little by-play was gotten up as a bait for 
Felix. What modest girl wonld give her lover reason to hope 
at a second meeting, and carry a love intrigue to such an ex- 
tent without the knowledge of her parents. In the street — 
home late at night — and, worst of all a betrothed bride. What 
sort of love is that ? Good heavens! what unworthy- sensa- 
tions fill my heart and mind ! What is it ? Jealousy ? How 
mean, miserable, humiliating does that fiend make us. We 
often doubt the sincerity of our best friends. We become ex- 
perts in discovering the faults of others, leaving our own un- 
disturbed. Everything artificial in our own behavior makes 
us suspicious of the artlessness of others. Hypocrites never 
believe in truthfulness, nor coquettes in that womanly pride 
which scorns to solicit the approbation of the other sex. It is 
only the envious who show jealousy, can all these be applied 
to me? Yes. Oh, yes, I will not conceal the name. I have 
given myself up entirely to the shame of permitting that fiend 
to debase me. Yes, Emma, I hate you — because Felix 
LOVES you. (Sinks on the sofa and weeps arising hesitates^ 
smiling.) But how unkind I have been. In what an un- 
womanly light I have viewed Emma's transaction in giving 
alms to the poor. Why, in itself it is a virtue. She loves 



18 

him and should she be so prudish and false as to hide it from 
him ? Oh, Emma, Felix — my mother in heaven, forgive me. 
It was but for a moment that the demon jealously overpowered 
me. Now {with force) all the proud instincts of my womanly 
nature have been aroused. I do not forget that I am of noble 
birth and parentage. Honor demands that I shall never do 
one mean act that would bring discredit upon my name or an- 
cestors. This is but a world of sorrow, at best, can we ex- 
pect anything else ? Then let the waves of trouble roll over 
me. Let the waves dash on the shoreline of my existence as 
they may — I shall heed them not, but in strong integrity 
of soul, and firm determination, calmly stand and see the 
stormy billows of folly breaking at my feet. Yes — yes — yes. 
Let Felix and Emma meet, love each other and be happy. I 
will look on with pleasure, and not a tear shall flow or a frown 
rest upon my brow. 



CURTAIN. 



HELOISE, 



O R, 



THE UNREVEALED SECRET 



-IN — 



FIVE ACTS. 



A^ CT II 



PHILADELPHIA. 
1882. 



HELOISE; 

O R, 

THE UNREVEALED SECRET. 



CHARACTERS IN ACT II: 

Names : 

HELOISE.^ 

ISABELLA.— 

EMMA.— 

BARONESS ROSEN.— 

FELIX — 

ANGERN.— 

BARON VON BONHERS r— 

PHOF. BUDWIG.- 

COL. VON WILLINGEN.— 

SERVANT — 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1882, by 

W. O. LESLIE, 

In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. 



ACT II 



SCENE I. — Grand Ball room — Handsome three-arched palace, in third 
grove — Boxed with large arched Flats R. and L., scene backed by con- 
servatory, handsome lighted chandelier swinging from the ceiling centre 
— Piano in E. corner up stage sofa LI. and I^. down stage chairs arranged 
around stage against flats — swinging bird cages and flower baskets 
hanging from ceiling, flower stands, statuettes, etc., at different places 
onstage — in fact anything that will lend to make the scene handsome. 
Music at the rise of curtain — Colonel Willingen^ Baron Angern, Isa- 
bella, Heloise, Madame von Pollwitz, are seen dancing at rise and con- 
tinue for six bars after curtain is up, during dance Felix enters from C. 
discovers Emma and Angern dancing, goes to piano, looks at music and 
throws some of it down violently on piano, as music ceases, Isabella i^oes 
to Heloise, who at the conclusion of dance sits on sofa. 



Isabella- — Heloise, speak to your brother, his behavior 
is too conspicuous. (Felix comes downstage L. (7.) 

Heloise. — (Crosses G. to Felix,) Good evening, Felix. 

FeliX- — (Startled,) So you have come at last, I did not 
see you before, it is terribly hot in here. ( Wiping his face 
with his handkerchief.) 

Heloise. — (Aside) Then he has at least missed me. 
( Turning to Felix.) What is the matter, Felix ? 

Felix. — I entreat you, Heloise, do not drive me to dis- 
traction ! All is over ! You are right — you are all right. 
Leave me alone now. 



Heloise. — Who is right ? 

{Felix without speaking rushes to the other side of the 
saloon. Emma^ on Angern^s arm, was seen advancing to the 
piano after being seated. Felix in background.) 

Isabf^Ua. — (Advancing to Heloise.) With what do you 
think she will favor us ? 

Heloise. — Probably with one of her Italian airs which 
she is said to sing so well. 

Isabella. — You are very much mistaken, she is wise 
enough to know that Angern has heard such music performed 
better than she can possibly play, and he is of course the one 
towards whom all her artillery is directed to-night. (Heloise 
and Isabella sit on sofa left.) 

Emma commences singing the little song : 

" The soldiers are passing with music so loud ; 

Of their swords and their feathers they're mightily 
proud. 
The girls in a hurry run out in the street ; 

The one gives a nod and the other looks sweet. 

Run after your lovers so far as you will, 
I'll stay in my chamber, so cozy and still. 

What care I how much you all run, gape and stare ; 
My true love is at work in the shop over there. 

By land and by water, north, south, east and west, 
My own darling boy is the one I love best. 

What if I am busy from morning till night ? 
The thought of my true love's my only delight. 

And though now and then with another I stroll ; 

Yet his image sparkles and shines in my soul. 
And if to another I do sometimes smile, 

My boy, he is safe in my heart all the while. '^ 

(Applause by the company.) 



(^Enter Servant from G. with tray and serves guests with ices, 
etc. Business,) 

Heloise* — (To Isabella.) Poor Felix, his countenance 
is the mirror of his varying emotions — a struggle between 
sorrow and rage. The charming little song I often sang to 
him in days gone by — he set it to music some time ago and 
gave it to Emma. 

Felix — (Approaching Heloise with a forced smile.) 
The enchantres ! my heart is like wax in her hands. 

!E!ninia« — (Approaching Felix. — In a low tone.) On 
your knees you shall beg my pardon to-morrow. (Goes to 
other side of atage.) 

Dr, von Ludwig and Baron Werneburg enters (7., af er saluting 
the host sit on sofa R.) 

{Exit Baroness von Pollwitz G. D, L.) 

Isabella — {To Heloise) Now, my dear friend, there is 
my husband, and I am afraid he has been 'drinking too much 
wine. If this was some other place I would not care. The 
doctor, you know, is of a good famih% but a little eccentric — 
he is a friend of Baron Angern's, and has been invited here 
by Col. Willingen as a mark of respect to the Baron. 

Col. W — By the way, Baron Angern, I believe you have 
recently viftited the United States of America, I suppose 
have returned to your native land with very extensive ideas 
of reform, and find here many abuses that you would like to 
see corrected. 

{Angern comes down the centre., brings chair and sits, Emma to 
his back, Felix by Heloise.) 

Angern — Yes, my dear Colonel, I have, and found 
there many things and ideas that I could not sanction, that 
will take many } ears yet to overcome and set them right. 
Still I cannot but admire the Great Republic and the 
cardinal principles upon which it rests. The human mind can 
conceive of no higher order of government than that which 



secures to the people the right to make and administer their 
own laws. There is something so grand and sublime in the 
bold declaration made by those self-sacrificing patriots, when 
they proclaimed to the world the '* self-evident truths," that 
all men are created equal and have certain unalienable rights? 
life, liberty and the pursuits of happiness." With the sword 
the}^ caused these principles to be recognized. After their 
struggle for independence declared that, "We, the People, or- 
dain and establish a constitution to secure the bless- 
ings of liberty to ourselves and prosterity." Then, a few 
insignificent colonies, through the necessity of self-protection 
and the formation of a more perfect union, clasped hands — 
wheeled into line, and joined in the grand march of nations. 

Col W. — Do you really think, Baron, that these are self- 
evident truths? Are you convinced that these American institu- 
tions can long survive, unless the use of the elective franchise 
is confided to intelligent men — educated and in possession of 
those qualifications necessar}^ to enable them to act with 
judgment and sound discretion ? 

Ang^rn. — The result of my observations among the 
American people is, that to sustain a republican government 
does not require such an extraordinary amount of intelligence. 
It is patriotism and fidelity to principle. In discharge of the 
executive functions every oflflcer feels that he is enforcing the 
public will as well as his own. He realizes that the great 
moral force of the communit}^ demands obedience to the laws, 
and that the private interests of all are implicated. These 
ideas permeating the whole and being put in practice 
certainly lead to perfect equality in the administration of 
law. The motives which largely predominate in the conduct 
of men is self-interest, and this, we may say after all, is the 
silent sovereign that sways the state. 

CoL W. — Baron, I can hardly agree with you. Does not 
experience show that a monarchy surrounded by an aristo- 
cracy provides a better security tor the masses, than the self- 



interests of which you speak ? Power concentrated in a few 
hands and wielded b}' intelligence, is more reliable and very 
much more effective than w^lien freel}^ exercised by the multi_ 
tude. What discipline or reliable force is there in an unor- 
ganized mob? That 3'ou may say is power exercised by the 
people, but it is only temporary. When the excitement is 
over, the power vanishes and anarchy is the result. 

Angern — That may be, Colonel, superficially true, but 
we must look at the cause that actuate the mob to dee<ls of 
violence. It is a consciousness that their rights in some way 
have been imposed upon, and by phy.^ical force they attempt 
to recover and restore them. The American people have no 
mobs for political reasons — there is no cause for them, they 
acknowledge no superiorty in persons. The administrators of 
the law art' but their servants. The time, Colonel, has ceased 
to exist when this form of government can rightfully be con- 
sidered an experiment. The United States of America, after 
severe tests, have existed as a nation, and now I think, with 
great justice, proclaims to the world the superiority of a Re- 
public over all other forms of government. The history of 
the world teaches the great fact that the mental, moral and 
social facilities of a people have been developed just in propor 
tion to their facilities for self government. And. notwith. 
standing the free exercise of private judgment and the great 
variety of thought, the fanatical dream of socialism, or the 
poisonous w^eed of communism, find no congenial soil there in 
which to take root. 

Isabella. — Baron, do the ladies of America exercise the 
elective franchises ? 

Angt^rn. — No, madame. The ladies of America love 
liberty, but are entirely willing to leave the preservation of 
the institutions of their country in the hands of their fathers, 
brothers and husbands. 

Erom a kind of instinct, belonging onh* to women, the 
better class, crystalize into what may be called the ' Nobilitv 



8 

of Republicanism/' This high order is the outgrowth of Vir- 
tue, Libert}' and Independence— the result of moral and intel- 
lectual development. While they do not directly participate 
in politics they exercise ?nd maintain a conservative influence 
ov^er all parties that insures the perpeturit}' of the govern- 
ment. After all, madame, notwithstanding the bosted super- 
ior ty of intellect in the men, ''the little hand that rocks the 
cradle rules the world." 

(Music — Hail Columbia— once over,) 
(Madame Von Follwitz Enters.) 

(Excited). Isabella, 3'our husband bars fallen and hurt 
his head. The servant is bringing him this wa3^ 

(Enter Von Bonhurst and servant C. D. Servant leads Von 
Bonhurst down stage and sits him in chair G. Gents gather 
around him. Doctor Lodwig on his L. G. /. 

-Von Bonhurst. — Oh, Oh. (Rubbing Ms head.) 

Dr. Ludwig. — (Feeling Von B.'s head.) It is a con- 
tusion of the cerebrum. But as their appears but little 
laceration and no fracture, simple or compound, the piameter 
cannot be injured ; nor even is there more than a slight im- 
pression of the dura mater ; so that trepanning does not 
appear necessary" — a most fortunate circumstance ; for a 
wouufi in the head is of all places the most dangerous ; be- 
cause there can be no amputation to save life. There being 
but one head to a man, and that, the residence of the five 
scenes, if any he has, it is impossible to live without it. Never- 
theless the present case is highly dangerous, as it might lead 
to a subsultus tendinum or lock-jaw. It is necessarj^ to apply 
cataplasms in order to reduce inflamation and bring about a 
sanative disposition of the parts. Perhaps it might not be 
amiss to take an anodyne or a refrigerant. Many patients 
have been lo^t by the ignorance of physiciars prescribing 
tonics in such cases ; whereas, in the first stage of a contusion, 



9 

relaxing and antifebrile medicines are proper. A little phle- 
botomy is no doubt necessary to prevent the rupture of the 
smaller blood vessels. 

Von Bon. — Doctor, do these owful hard words apply to 
me ? I begin to feel somewhat alarmed. Nevertheless I do 
not think I can be absolutely dangerous. For it seems to me 
that I am not sick at heart or under any mortal pain. 

Doctor. — I observe that in this case, sir, you cannot 
be a judge. For the very part is affected by which to judge, 
viz., the head. It is no uncommon thing for men in the ex- 
tremest cases to imagine themselves well, whereas in reality 
they may been in the greatest possible danger. Notwith- 
standing the symptoms are mild, from the contusion, mortifi- 
carion may ensue. Hippocrates, who might be styled an ele- 
mentary physician, has a treatise on this very subject, and is 
of opinion that the most dangerous symptom is a topical in- 
censibilitj^, but among the moderns, Sydenham considers it in 
another point of view, and thinks that where there is no pain 
there is great reason to suppose there is no hurt. Antiseptic 
medicines may be very proper. 

Von Bonhurst. — It is part of your profession to make 
the case worse than it is. Please let me know your real judg- 
ment. 

Dr.* Ludwig. — (Look ng ^steadfastly and feeling his 
pulse.) There is an evident delirium appproachiug. This 
argues an affection of the brain, and it will be necessary to 
give some soporiferous draughts to put the patient to sleep. 

Von B. — If you will give me a bottle of wine and water 
I will g© to sleep myself. 

Dr* Ludwig. — A deleterious mixture in this case. The 
wine would be better without the water. Let the patient be 
put to bed, and in the morning there may appear a healthy 
pus. There is probably but little in the hurt or the head. 



10 

(Exit servant leading Baron CJ) 

Col. Willigen. — Ladies and gentlemen, the baron does 
not appear to be very seriously injured and will be now well 
taken care of. Before going to the banquet hall, where a re- 
past now awaits us, some of our friends will entertain us with 
a dance. 

( Company form a quadrille and dance until curtain.) 
{Music starts up a quadrille^ Lancers or a gand ballet intro- 
duced.) 

CURTIAN. 



HELOISE, 



OR, 



THE UNREVEALED SECRET 



FIVE ACTS. 



^CT III. 



PHILADELPHIA. 
1882. 



HELOISE; 

OR, 

THE UNREVEALED SECRET. 



CHARACTERS IN ACT III: 

Names : 

HELOISE.— 
EMMA- 
ISABELLA.— 
BARONESS ROSEN.— 
FELIX — 
ANGERN.— • 
COL. VON WILLINGEN.— 
SERVANT.— 



ACT III. 



Same scene as First Act in house of Colonel von Willingen — 
Colonel seated at table reading paper ^ laying paper down and 
taking off spectacles. 

Colonel Von Willingen— I do wonder why Baron 
Angern has not been here to invite Emma to the sleigh-ride 
this evening. I hear that nearly all the young people belong- 
ing to fashionable society will be out. 

(Enter Servant C. Z>.) 

Servant. — Count Felix von Waldeck. {Enter Felix C. 
D. Exit Servant (7. D. 

Felix. — (Bowing.) Colonel, I am much delighted to 
find you alone, for I have come to ask your kind permission 
to accompany Mile. Emma to a sleigh-ride. 

Col. von W. — Please be seated, sir. (After remaining 
silent for some time.) I am afraid, sir, that^t will not be pos- 
sible to grant your request. 

Felix. — (Somewhat agitated.) Why not, sir ? 

Col. von W. — (In a could indifferent manner.) It is 
more suitable that Emma should ride with her cousin, Baron 
Angern. 

Felix. — (In a stiff manner.) Baron Angern so far as I 
know, will not be of the party. 

Col von W. — Indeed, well then, at any rate, it is better 



that Emma should not join it without asking him, for she is 
enganged to the Baron. 

Pelix, — {Rising much agitated^ vrith a low bow,) Very 
wellj then I have for the present nothing more to say (con- 
temptuously) until I have asked Baron Angern if he lays ex- 
clusive claim to Emma's company. 

Col. von W — Then I will send the Baron to you, he is 
in another room. 

(Exit Col Von W. G- D. Felix rings hell on table L.) 
Felix. — {Enter servant.) Is Miss von Willigen within? 

Servant* — Yes sir {In a tone with a shade of contempt)*^ 
but her Spanish master is with her, and she must not be in- 
terrupted. 

Felix. — I am tired of forever playing so humble a part. 
I will no longer share her, with arrogant cousins and Spanish 
fortune hunters. {Enter Baron Angern C. D, The Baron 
receives Felix with civiltry. They shake hands,) Baron, I 
am exceedingly happy to meet you at this particular time, for 
with your kind permission, I would like to have a little pri- 
vate conversation with you. 

Baron A. — (Aside.) I know what is the matter with 
the Count. ( Turning to Felix.) Well, Count, it will afford 
me infinite pleasure to gratify your wishes. Allow me to help 
you to a cigar. ( Taking one himselt They light their cigars 
and sit.) {Servant speaks during business.) 

Servant — {Aside.) I wonder what is the matter with 
that chap they call count — he looks to me as if he was either 
in love or had been drinking very strong tea. I think the 
former, however, for it is just the way I acted and spoke when 
I was in love. 



{Exit Servant G. D. L) 

Baron A. — Now count, you shall have my undivided 
attention. 

Folix* — Baron, I shall use but few words by way of in- 
troduction. I am in love^with Mile, von Willingen, and wish 
to marry her. I heard she was engaged to Baron Angern — 
did not believe the report, but had it confirmed just a few 
moments ago, from the lips of Emma's grandfather ; and now, 
I have come to ask 3'ou frankly how far you have agreed to 
this arrangement — sincerely hoping that j'^ou will not regard 
the question as impertinent on my part. 

Baron A- — (Composedly.) Count, permit me first to 

ask you a question. Did Miss Emma know that you intended 

to call on me ? 

• 
Felix. — No, my dear Baron, she did not. 

Baron. — And have you reason. Count, to hope that she 
would approve of this step if she were aware of it ? 

Felix. — Does your answer to my question depend on my 
reply to yours ? * 

Baron A. — it does indeed. 

Felix. — Weil, I can sa}^, Baron, without indiscretion, 
that I have reason to hope the young lady would not reject 
me if she were free. 

Baron A. — In that case, then Count, she is free. Let 
Emma decide whether I am to give up m} .claims or not. I 
oould explain to you in detail, were it necessary, all the cir- 
cumstances which bound me to Emma. While I have for the 
young lady the highest respect, I am free to say that without 
the intervention of her lover, I never could have made myself 
the victim of an imprudent contract which has hitherto been 
concealed. {Both rise, Felix shaking the baron by the hand.) 



Felix. — I thank you, Baron, a thousand times for your 
frankness and sincerity, I hope that Emma's grand parents 
will be satisfied with any new agreement that may be made, 
and whatever may be the terms, it may conform with the in- 
clination and desires of all parties in interest. Whatever I 
can contribute it shall be done, lor it is not the heiress that I 
love, but Emma. 

Baron A- — My dear Count, let' the affairs of the inher- 
itance rest for the present. Go and ask Emma's hand in mar- 
rirge of her grand parents, for I do assure you I will take no 
ignoble advantage of her change of mind. 

Felix -I will at once write a letter of proposal to Col. 
Willigen, and in order to prevent a refusal, I will mention my 
interview with you (Rises and goes C), and for the pres- 
ent, adien. (Exit Felix G. D.) 

Baron A.— I hope this thing will end to the entire 
satisfactioii of all. My engagement with Emma was a pure 
matter of business, arranged with her grand parents for theirs 
and her benefit -to prevent lawsuits — to settle family difficult 
ties concerning the ownership of property. When this ar- 
rangement was made Emma was but a child of eleven years^ 
She had no heart in the bethrothal and I must say I had quite 
as little. It was a mere matter of expedience. Emma has 
grown to be a beautiful and accomplished young lady, but, I 
must say, I am not matrimonial inclined at the present time. 
The Count loves her, and I suppose she loves him. I sincerely 
hope that her grand parents will not be so stupid as to throw 
anything in the way to prevent tneir marriage. However, 
" there's many a slip 'twixt the cup and the lip," and Emma 
may yet be thrown back on my hands. But I will not com- 
mence to climb the mountain until I get to its base. (Exit 
G. D. E. Enter Emma R. L E.) 

Smma. — I have heard of the intended sleigh-ride, and 
have been hourly expecting Felix to come and invite me to 



take part in it. Hour after hour has passed away, but no 
Felix has appeared. My vexation is increasing rapidly but I 
shall not show it before grand papa. He is a shrewd old 
gentleman, and may have some idea how matters stand. But 
I am becoming more and more exasperated against Felix. It 
is now tea time, and no Felix yet. (Goes and sits at table L, 
Enter servant C. D. with letter. 

Servant* — From Count van Waldeck. {Exit servant 

Emma- — What does this mean? Can he, in spite of my 
request — (rising from the table) (uside) My vexation is in- 
creasing every moment. (Enter Colonel G. D. L, 

Emnia. — Grand papa, here is a letter for you. (rises), 
{Colonel comes down slowly, pulls spectacles out of his pocket, 
opening the lette, reads it in silence, jingling of sleigh-bells 
heard on the street, Emma goes to window. Col. crosses to 
label L, and sits, lays letter on the table, in a cool manner begins 
to read newspaper,) 

Emina. — (Greatly agitated,) (Aside.) Oh, dear, oh, 
the sleigh-ride has commenced, and I am not one of the party. 
My indignation toward Felix has reached the highest point. 
I am resolved to revenge myself. ( Coming down R. E. and 
endeavoring to assume a pleasant tone.) Grand papa, what is 
in that letter ? 

Col. — (Sail reading paper.) (Pause, then he looks up.) 
Tell me, Emma, on what terms are you with Baron Angern 
now? 

Emma. — On what terms am I with my cousin? Dear 
grand pa, why, as usual — we are good friends. 

Col. — I mean, Emma, has he never hinted to you since 
he came back, that he wants to marry you ? 



8 

Emma. — {Pertly,) Has he hinted the contrary to you, 
grand pa ? 

Col, — Not exactly, but it is not much better, he has said 
nothing about it. What — if some one else wanted you, do 
you think you would let Angern go ? 

Emma. — I shall conform to your wishes in everything, 
Grand pa. {Covering her face with her handkerchief,) 

CoL— -Fudge, that is what all the girls say, and in the 
end you will be sure to have your own way. What do you 
think of Waldeck, eh ? 

Em.m.a. — {Aside,) He'll certainly not gain his point 
quite so easily. {Aloud.) But the law-suit, grand papa ? 

Col. — Yes, these law-suits are confounded aflairs; they 
use up quanties of money aad are terribly vexatious. The 
lawyers said, Emma, that- the compromise made when you 
were betrothed to Angern was the wisest step we could have 
taken for your interest. 

Em.ma* — And so now, grand papa, you want me to give 
up an inheritance which is half the fortune of your poor 
Emma. 

Col. — Who says so ? Can't we propose a division of the 
property ? I tell you what, Em, your are pretty avaricious 
for a girl of your age. 

Emma. — {Poutingly.) How you wrong me. Oh, 
grand pa, how you mistake me. And I must hear this from 
you, just about two men, for neither of whom I care a straw* 

Col. — Well, well, they are both not to be dispised, 
Emma, but you know I will let you have your way — don't 
take either of them. You've got money enough to get along 
with alone. An old maid don't want much to live on. 

Emma* — ( With indignation,) Old maid ! What good 



would it do if I were to say I preferred Waldeck, you would 
only call me avaricious. 

Col. — He would not be a bad choice. 

Emma. — But Baron Angern will he agree to all this so 
readily ? 

Col. — If he cared anything for you would he not have 
spoken of it long ago ? 

"Fl mm q. — [^Aside,'] I wonder if he believes that Angern 
has rejected me ; that is insupportable. [ With i?'ritation.'] 
[Aloud.^ How do you know but what Angern is only silent 
because he thinks my heart belong to another 

Col. — Ah, ha, that is it? Ye ^, yes, things look as if 
Waldeck was sure of success. He is not the fellow to court 
a girl that is known to be engaged, unless she gives him notice 
that she would like to shift the scene. 

Emma. — [Angei^ly.'] There 3^ou and he are very likely 
to find yourselves mistaken. You can just tell him that I 
don't like him — or — \hesitatingly~\, no, that is not it, say that 
I ask some time to consider it. 

[Enter Baron Angern G. D. L.~\ 

Col. von W. — Ah, Baron, ni}' grand-daughter and I 
were speaking of you, but now I will leave you, a man can 
plead his own cause much better than another can for him. 

{Exit Col Von C. D. 

Angern. — Emma, allow me to improve these rare 
moments of our being alone, in coming to an understanding 
with you. You know, probably m}' dear cousin, what we old 
people agreed upon with regard to you when you w^ere a child 
of not yet fourteen. 

Emma. — And what if I do know of it ? 



10 

Ang6rn. — {In a perfectly calm and indifferent manner.) 
Then you would know that we were very foolish. The affair 
can now be arranged differently. It is very plain that I am 
too old for you. I ought to have staid here to gain your 
affections, for it was very imprudent for us to hope that you 
would fix them upon an absent person. I can, therefore, 
heartly approve of your having favored the advances of a 
worthy young man, whom nature seems to have made for 
you. 

TH rmri a. — Who told you that I have favored the advances 

of another ? 

Anger a. — Emma— Count Waldeck would not have asked 
the hand of an affianced bride in marriage, and much less ex- 
pressed his wishes to her intended himself, unless he had some 
hope of being accepted. 

Smnia- — (With pe?^ feet composure.) Your frankness, 
my dear cousin, makes it my duty also to be perfectly plain 
with you. It seems to me indeed, as if I were not exactly 
suited to you, and if you know some other way of settling the 
old contract I would prefer it. 

Ail?6ril. — {Apparently muck relieved,) Leave it all to 
me, Emma, and allow me to offer you my congratulations for 
your marriage with our friend Waldreck. {Exit C. D.) 

TC mrri fl.. — [^soliquising'] Waldeck is handsome, has 
the most money — the latter is a very important element in 
matrimonial considerations, and should not be overlooked be- 
fore pledges are gives, or contracts made. Why should a 
woman marry a man who has not plenty of money ? Love 
has iti atttactions and is very captivating to many, but, I 
must say, to me, money is much more so, and I guess all 
women are about alike. I don't like Angern very well, and 
never did. So I will instruct grand papa to accept Waldeck 
for me. {Exit CD) 



11 

{Enter Heloise L. L, E. Enter Isabella from opposite side J?. 
/. E.J with Baroness von Rosen, 

Isabella. — {Ootng to Heloise and kisses her.) My dear 
young friend, the Baroness and I have called upon you in re- 
lation to a matter in which she is deeplj' interested. 

Heloise. — Be seated, ladies. 

Isabella — But first of all, my dear Heloise, 3'ou look so 
pale and feeble. 

Heloise. — it is nothing I assure you but a slight cold. 
{Assuming a lively appearance). From the effects of which I 
am rapidly recovering, besides which, Felix, my brother, has 
just been here, and is about to start for a short visit to our 
old home, on business which he has to settle before his mar- 
riage. My thoughts have gone before him, and the resemb- 
lance of the scenes of our childhood, and the very happy 
hours we spent there with his mother, has produced a slight 
agitation. Making me a little nervous, but nothing more. 

Isabella. — I heard that he and Emma are to be married 
soon. 

Heloise- — Yes, I suppose so, but I think I will not wait 
for the ceremon}. I prefer returing home and living a quiet 
life in the countr}. Were it not for you and some other dear 
friends, the citj^ would be a lonely place. 

Isabella. — I do not wonder, Heloise, that you take but 
little interest in the marriage of Felix, for I have every reason 
to believe it will not be a happ}- one. Even now, Felix has 
but little time to observe others. Emma is so whimsical and 
full of alternate caprice — one day lavishing lipon him a pro- 
fusion of love and tenderness — the next passing several hours 
in a poutiflg fit for offenses of which he is entirely unconscious, 
thus keeping him in continual ferver. It he happens to men- 
tion your name, or she hears of him giving you the smallest 
attention, he is sure to have to listen to such reproaces as 



12 

" you do not love me." " I sacrificed everything for you, but 
you love j^our relatives better than you love me," and so forth, 
and what will it be, Heloise, after they are married ? 

Heloise, — My dear friend, I cannot tell, but from the 
bottom of my heart I pitty Felix. 

Isabella. — But, Heloise, we must to business. We have 
just left the palace of President von Groenan, the Baroness' 
father. I found the Baroness laying on a sofa bathed in tears 
with her head on her mother's lap. A letter has been received 
from Baron Rosen, who is still in St. Petersburg, insisting 
upon the Baroness joining him, with the children immediately. 
He has been appointed governor of one of the eastern pro- 
vinces, and is obliged to leave towards the middle of May. 
He entreated her to take advantage of the sleighing in the 
Baltic provinces for her journey, so that she can arrive in 
St. Petersburg. Her parents, with whom she has resided so 
long, have decided that she ought to go. 

Heloise. — ( To the Baroness, who is weeping.) In spite 
of the interest I have felt in the narrative, I can hardly sup- 
press a smile, for I really thought at first the letter contained 
the sad news that Baron von Rosen was dying and had sent 
for his wife to bid him a last farewell. ( Caressing the Bare, 
ness.) Do not feel so badl}^, even domestic affections can be 
carried to excess. You no doubt dearly love you parents, 
whom you have never left, but you know, Baroness, your 
children are going to their father, and after all, a father's arms 
are the safest resting place. How I wish I could go to my 
father in Russia— Oh — I mean my uncle, who takes the place 
of father to me. 

Baroness. — ( Throwing her arms around Heloise sud- 
denly.) That is just what we wish you to do. Come and go 
with me and see your uncle in Russia. 



13 

Heloise. — (Startled.) (Aside.) Go to my father in 
Russia Not pass Felix's marriage day her ! Not see him at 
the altar? (To the Barones.) But I do not know where uncle 
is. How can I find him? Perhaps he is on the Turkish 
frontier. 

Baroness. — My dear Heloise, the Baron, my Husband, 
will settle that. You may find your uncle in St. Petersburg. 
At any rate you can hear f rom him there. Rosen will let 
your uncle know you are in the country. Perhaps he might 
be stationed in Rosen's country. 

Isabella- — Helose, do go. How can this poor young 
thing, who has never been away from her mother, travel alone. 
The journey will do you good, and you will see the long-absent 
— uncle. 

Heloise.— Well, then I'll go. ( To the Baroness.) To 
do you a service and to see my uncle I will go, for I need in 
this world a support. 

Isabella and Baroness. — Thanks, dear Heloise. ten 
thousand thanks. ( They both kiss her.) 

Baroness* — The horses shall be at this door to-morrow 
morning at five o'clock. Can you be read}^ ? 

Heloise. — Yes, I will be ready. {Exit Baroness and 
Isabella L. I, E.) How can I inform Madame von Pollwitz 
of my hasty decision. She may think this a wild scheme, but 
Isabella will explain all to her. And he — I will not, I can not 
see him again. I will write frankly and tell him all. But 
awav from here I must go. Poor Lisette, I must tell her of 
my intention. Poor girl she has been my friend ftom child- 
hood. I will write to Felix. (Grosses to table L.^ sits and 
writes.) There, among a thousand tears, I mail this, m3^ last 
letter. (Bises goes to C.) Now, my beloved Felix, farewell — 



14 

perhaps forever ♦ forever. (Exit D. L. F,) 

(Enter Felix C. Z>. L. with Emma, comes down stage, Emma 
sits on Ottoman, 

Felix. — My dear Emma, I have now arrived at the point 
towards which I have struggled for the last eight months 
with the most indefaticable zeal. Charming Emma, before 
Go^ and man you are now my affianced bride, and it is my 
earnest wish and desire that you drop all superfluous acquaint- 
ances, and cease those silly flirtations in which ladies of the 
highest respectability often indulge before their engagements. 
We have been formally berothed in the presence of your grand 
parents and have pledged ourselves to life-long fidelity. 

Eninia* — (In a cool manner.) Felix, that is all very 
pretty in theory, but I cannot help experiencing some very 
bitter feelings towards you. Contrary to your promise, you 
undertook such an important step as to ask Baron Angern to 
release me from an old engagement without first consulting me 
on the subject. This is freedom in my affairs which I did not 
expect you to make, and I wish you to distinctly understand 
that I am not to be placed in such a humiliating position 
again. 

Felix — (Approaching Emma and trying to kiss her,) 
Will my dear and charming Emma let the past be for- 
gotten ? Heretfter I shall live only for you, and it shall be 
my pleasure and heart's delight to seek your happiness. 

Emma. — (Resisting Felix's attempt fo embrace and kiss 
her,) Enough for the present. Felix, we must see, before 
such extravagant familiarty, how far these profuse promises 
made on your part will be fulfilled. I have some letters to 
write and must ask you to excuse me for the present, adieu. 
(Exit Emma R. L, E.) 



15 

Felix- — I always knew that Emma was full of caprices, 
but I have received much cooler treatment in this interview 
than, as an accepted suitor, I had reason to expect. I am not 
happy, but time may bring all things right. (Enter servant 
C. D, with letter.) 

Servant. — Letter for Count von Waldeck. 

{Felix receives letter. Exit sei^eant G. D.) 

Falix. — What is this ? Letter from Heloise ! {Music P. 
. P. until Curtain?) {Opens letter and reads, extremely agitated.) 

My Dear Felix : — 

I know you will be alarmed and astonished when 
you hear that I am gone, and the though of leaving you makes 
me sorry. I go to Russia in search of — my father. 

Yes, Felix, I will now tell you 
THE ENEEYEALED SECRET. 

I am not your sister — Count Stedan is my father 
and the Brincess Antonia was m}^ mother. You will find en- 
closed the evidence in the hand-writing of your mother — 
written just before her death. Her last communication was to 
you. It was her wish that it should be handed to you im- 
mediately after her death. Forgive me for withholding it so 
long. You will readily understand the reason. 

You have found a heart to love 3"ou. My father, 
too, must need me. God bless you, Felix. Think sometimes 
of the years of our childhood and do not forget 

Your loving friend, 

Heloise. 

And the last letter of my dying mother — {reads letter,) 



16 

Waldeck, January 9. 
My Dear Felix : — 

Your dying mother sends you her last mes- 
sage. Heloise is not your sister. She will tell you all. 
It is my dying wish that she become your wife. This is all I 
can say. Your loving mother, 

Amelia. 

Oh, Heloise! Heloise! Why did you supress 
this letter so long — this, the last wish of my dear departed 
mother ? And you gone, left me without a parting word or a 
kiss. You, since I know all, the dearest being to me on earth. 
Is my life but an illusion — a dream ? Is it a failure ? Just 
as I was about to lift the cup of happiness to my lips it has 
been dashed to the ground. Oh, Heloise, Heloise! How 
awful that I was not put in possession of this secret immedi. 
ately after the death of my mother. What happiness I have 
missed. Heloise, your pure soul meant nothing wrong, but 
your extreme modesty has brought me to this fearful condi- 
tion. This will be a thorn in my heart for the remainder of 
mv days. Heloise, " not my sister I" — but loved me so much. 
{Hesitatingly) But — but is this being true to Emma — Emma, 
to whom I have just pledged eternal devotion and fidelity? 
Oh, dreadful, dreadful. {Throwing himself on a sofa and 
burying his face in his hands. Rising.) My trouble is greater 
than I can bear. Heloise, no tongue can tell what I suffer for 
you. Thinking and believing you to be my sister, I loved you^ 
far beyond the common affection of a brother. What a mis- 
take that this paper containing the last wish of my dead 
mother had not been placed in my hands immediately after 
her decease. If it had, the world would have been to me all 
happiness, not a cloud of sorrow to darken my pathway. Oh 
Heloise, why did you not speak, that I might have obeyed 
this last request which came from the d^dng lips of one I 
loved so much — like every advice she gave — showed me the 
way to true happiness and prosperity. Now I can see noth- 



17 

ing but long years of terrible suffering laying before me, for 
my honor, my integrity, whatever may be the result, binds me 
solomenly to Emma, whose earnestness I tremblingly doubt. 
Is there no relief? Is there no wa}^ to escape these horrible 
surroundings ? (Falls on sofa and sighs.) 

(Enter Isabella B. L E.) 

IsabeUa. — (Hastily and greatly agitated.) Felix [ Felix ! 
I have news, all-important news for you — welcome, or un_ 
welcome, I must tell 3^ou. Emma has eloped with her music 
teacher. (Exit R.L £.) 

Felix. — (Rising,) Eloped ! Thank God, I am free, 
Now, Heloise, I will live only for you. In 3'Ou I have lost 
sister, but gained a bride. I detest the miserable creature who 
has but deceived me from the first , while I was honest in my 
intentions. I see now that I was only the victim of fascina- 
tion. But, Heloise, for you my love comes not from romantic 
blindness, unoccupied imagination, nor inordinate desire. I 
know you perfectly, and I love 3^ou because I do know you, 
and I am certain that my love is returned with the whole 
force of a pure, innocent heart, 

I will hasten at once for St. Petersburg, and not one foot 
of Russian territory shall remain untrodden by me. Yes, I 
will search to the uttermost end of the earth till I find you, 
at your feet will I kneel and pledge eternal, everlasting fidelity. 
(Goes to CD, Picture.) 

CURTAIN. 



HELOISE, 



O R, 



THE UNREVEALED SECRET 



FIVE ACTS. 



^ C T IV. 



PHILADELPHIA. 
1882. 



HELOISE; 

OR, 

THE UNREVEALED SECRET. 



CHARACTERS IN ACT IV: 

Names ; 

HELOISE.— 
BARONESS- 
PRINCE.— 
COUNT STEDAN.— 
BARON ROSEN.— 
COUNT DABANOFF.— 



ACT IV. 



SCENE I. — St. Petersburg. Drawing-room in Palace of Count Roson. 
Plain Chamber in first groove. Enter Baron R. I E., followed by 
Heloise and Baroness. 



Baron* — Well, ladies, you have had a long, tedious 
journey. {To his wife,) My dear Baroness, the joy and 
happiness which the arrival of yourself and my children has 
brought me is beyond description, and the gratitude which I 
feel to this noble young lady who has accompanied you, I 
cannot find words to express. When I received your letter 
informing me that a young lady was of your party I had no 
conception that she was the neice of Count Stedan on her way 
to meet her uncle. (To Heloise.) You have romantic ideas, 
my dear young lady. Count Stedan is stationed near the 
Caucasus. 

Holoise. — Is that inaccessible to me ? 

Baron. — I doubt whether it is just the place for delicate 



young ladies. You would find but poor accommodations in 
his camp. 

Heloise. — I am satisfied with but little. 

Baron — Even with a soldiers' tent ? 

Heloise. — Why not, if my uncle takes up with that of a 
soldier ? 

"BSLVOIl.— (Smiling,) Perhaps you will put on pages' 
attire and enlist, m} fair young lady. Such enthusiasm seems 
sijigular in a neice. Is there not a lover in the case ? 

Heloise. — My dear Baron, I do assure you no. Can- 
not I induce you to make inquiries about an apportunity for 
me to go to the Camcasus ? 

Baron* — it is really against my conscience, my dear 
little lady, to assist you in what I must call a piece of folly. 

Heloise. — Then take me to the Embassador of my 
sovereign and I will apply to him for the desired information. 

Baron. — This I will do with the hope that he will pur- 
suade you to abandon such a dangerous expedition. 

{Exit Baron L. E. E,) 

Heloese* — ( To the Baroness.) Must I meet with noth. 
ing but disappointment. I have come so far with the hope 
that I would be able to meet the best and only friend I have 
on earth. 

Baroness. — My dear Heloise, have patience, I know the 
Baron will leave nothing undone to gratify your wishes, not- 
withstanding his reluctance to such a perilous journey. The 



i 



Baron will return in a moment, for the Embassy is but a few 
doors from here. 

(Return Baron L. /. E.) 

Baron. — ( To Reloise.) Would you like to hear some- 
thing new from your country ? The Embassador informs me 
dispatches have just been received announcing that your old 
reighning P rince is dead. This may make some difference 
in your future. But he will send a messenger to you with full 
instructions. 

Heloise. — (^Aside.) The Embassador has always been a 
confident of the Prince Royal, and is, no doubt, familiar with 
the history of my mother and myself How can I mourn or have 
any love for a grand father who disowned my mother ? I re- 
cognize with gratitude the happy turn m}" destiu}^ appears to 
have taken. Perhaps what would he looked upon as ex- 
travagance in a niece might in a daughter be regarded 
as an act of filial affection. (Enter Count Debanoff, Heloise 
rises to receive him. Baron and Baruness extend courtesies , 
and Baron introduces Heloise. Dehanoff receives Heloise 
cordially.) 

Count D. — My dear young Countess, I am exceedingly 
happj' to meet you. Your Embassador has given me a brief 
histor}^ of the journey which the Baroness and \' ourself have 
made, and of your intention to go in search of your relative, 
Count Stedan. I am afraid that a journey like this is beyond 
your capabity. You had better first write him aud inform 
him of your arrival here. The mail to that part of the country 
goes only twice a week, and it will take four weeks for you to 
get an answer. The Baron and Baroness must leave here in 
a short time, and as I have no family I will procure you ac- 
commodations in the house of a friend. The mail does not 
leave for three days, and you can meanwhile think the matter 
over. If the Baron and Baroness are obliged to leave before 



you have decided, rely on me for all possible attention. But 
if you insist on starting at once for the frontier, I have full 
instructions from the Embassador to escort the Baroness and 
pourself to Count Stedon's headquarters. 

Helose. — I will not wait for a letter to reach him, but 
would rather start at once. Baroness, shall we make prepara- 
tions to go ? 

Baron6SS' — if you wish it, Heloise. 

Heloise. — Count, please lead the way. 

{Count Exits L, L jS?., followed by Heloise j Baroness and 
others. 



Twelve days are supposed to have elapsed between Scene 
I. and Scene II, 



SCENE II. — Headquarters of Count Stedan. Barracks connected with the 
Hospital near the foot of the Carcassian Mountains, Interior of the 
Barracks. Scene — Hut in third grooves, camp table, L. stool on 
each side, fire-place R. with fire-place, etc , near, old chair in front of 
swords, guns, hanging up. Writing material on table. Bugld call, roll 
of drum. Enter Count D. followed by Helose and the Baroness D. R. E. 



Count D. — There is your father's headquarters. He is 
at the hospital. I will inform him of your arrival. 

(^Exit D. R. F.) 

H6loiS6« — At length our journey is at an end, after 
traveling eleven long days and nights since we left St. Peters- 
burg over the Steppes inhabited only by Cossicks. I sincerel}^ 
hope I will soon meet my beloved father. I shall be very 
sorry if the courier by whom I sent the message informing 
him of my arrival has been delayed. I doubtless will be re- 
ceived with warm affection ; still the nearer the decisive 
moment, the more I am tormented with the fear that my 
father will not approve of the step I have taken without 
awaiting his permission. But no, no, he will not be dis- 
pleased. The sight of me will recall to his mind the blissful 
dream of love, as he called the brief period of happiness with 
my mother. The Ambossador at St. Petersburg told me the 
other day that I was the exact image of the Princess An. 
tonia, my mother, and how refreshing it will be to my father, 
the dear old exile, who has pined so long among loveless 
strangers, to hear his native language from the lips of his only 
child. The representative of the pale suffering one, whose 



8 

heart was crushed by a separation from the object of her 
affection* I cannot rest in this place long. I can almost hear 
the groans of the wounded and suffering. 

{Sits in chair B. of table L.) 

Baroness —( Who has been looking out of window during 
Heloise^s speech,) Countess, the Count is returning. {Coming- 
down L.) I hope the messenger has found the General. 
{Enter Count Z)., D. B. R) 

Count D. — Madamoiselle, you father will be here pres- 
ently. He is on his way now. I am proud to be the mes- 
senger between the great and mighty general and his daughter 

Heloise. — I fear that my arrival has been the occasion 
of depriving others of the possession of their property. 

Count DebanOff — Where is the Russian who would 
not be happy to serve the daughter of the great general ? In- 
deed, Countess, j^ou must prepare youself to be accused of too 
far more serious devastation than that. 

Heloise* — Do you hope for my aid against the Circas- 
sians, Monsier ? 

Count Debanoff. — The fame of our arms would be for:^ 
ever past if those savages would be wounded by a pair of 
handsome eyes as easily as Russian hearts. 

Heloise* — Enough, enough. Monsieur. I hope my father 
knows that I am ready to see him at any time. 

Count D. — Your father comes, Madamoiselle. Come to 
the window. Do you see those horsemen approaching, and 
that tall, noble-looking man who rides in the front with a 
dark-bronze complexion, and such a princely deportment. 



9 

Heloise. — How elegantly he is dressed. The rich uni- 
form of a Russian general. His breast gleaming with stars 
and honors of the highest rank. Is it possible that tnis noble- 
looking man is my father ? 

Count Stedan* — (A voice outside.) Adjutant, order 
sentinels to be placed around this building at once and 
allow no one to approach without permission from head- 
quarters. 

HeloiSO- — What a loud, commanding voice. The tones 
penetrate my innermost soul. I am almost paralyzed. 

{Flourish of music^ door is opened by Count D.) 

Count D, — (Bowing and giving milttary salute.) 
Madamoiselle, here is your father. {Enter Count Stedan.) 

Heloise* — Father! {Running to him and embracing,) 
{Exit Count Z>., R. D, F.) 

Count Stedan- — Can it be that my daughter is with 
me ? Heloise, the child of my love I 

Heloise. — {Agitated.) My father. My dear father. 
( The Count embraces her affectionately and leading her to a 
chair.) 

Count Stedan. — My child do not speak until you be. 
come more composed. I do not wish your words to be inter- 
rupted with tears. 

Heloise* — Father, you are not displeased that I have 
sought you ? 

Count Stedan. — ISmiling.^ Did you fear my dis- 
pleasure ? 



10 

Heloise. — Certainly not, when I left Germany, dear 
father, I only had one predominant feeling, the longing 
to throw myself on your breast, but when I entered upon this 
stage of war, where you reign like a prince, and where the 
voice of the heart is drowned by the clashing of swords, then 
a fear seized me, that my coming might not be agreeable to 
you. I have loved you for sixteen 3^ears, for that is about as 
long as I can remember, but to-day I have also learned to fear 
you. 

Count St ©dan.— ( Smiling.) The latter you had better 
leave to the men. (Putting his arm around her,) No, no, 
child I am not displeased. I confess, however, that I would 
rather have received you somewhere else. This wild theatre 
of war, where our movements are so uncertain and rapid, is 
not a fit place for a young girl. I would wish to spare you 
every annoyance and inconvenience, which I cannot here. 
Only the soft west winds should fan you, you tender plant. 
The Sirocco which blows from yon Asiatic mountains ought 
not to touch the German child of a prince. It will give me 
some trouble to get fit accommodations for you, Heloise, as 
it is, you must expect nothing but military quarters and a 
short visit this time, for we may move any hour. 

Heloise* — A small appartment is sufficient for me, dear 
father, I hoped you would find a place for me in your tents. 

Count Stedan. — Bravo ! I did not know what a fine 
soldier's child I had for a daughter. But, Heloise, while I 
think of it, my sister, the Countess of Waldeck, your foster 
mother, at one time communicated a plan to me which she 
said the Princess, your mother, approved, that was, she 
wished to have her son Felix marry you; what prevented its 
execution ? 

Heloise. — Felix's heart has chosen for itself, father. 



11 

Count StedaH. — Indeed, so he is married. Did my 
sister approve his choice ? 

Heloise. — She never heard of it. Felix was far away 
when his dear mother died 

Co ant Stedan* — Well, was the girl rich ? ( Taking her 
by the chin.) This is not a face a young man could easily re- 
ject. 

Heloise- — His affianced bride is a thousand times 
handsomer than I, and riches would not have influenced 
Felix's generous heart. 

Count Stedan. — Well, well, I confess that I too would 
have favored this connection. I would like to have had you 
settled on your estate as the wife of a German nobleman, in 
dependent of the humor and favor of superiors, far from the 
bustle of a world that will never make you happy. It was 
your motner and foster mother's ideas, for such plans always 
have their cradles in the hearts of women ; but it is just as 
well. Now that you are here you may eventually procure an 
establishment which will far surpass in splendor any that 
Felix could have offered you. 

Heloise. — Oh father, do not think of such a thing. Let. 
me stay with you. It was only for your sake I came here 
Are we not both equally alone in the world ? 

Count Stadan. — (Smiling.) I have some doubt of you 
always thinking so, Heloise. 

Heloise. — Be unconcerned father, I am neither weak nor 
feeble, but am able to bear every privitation that circum- 
stances require of me. Is not that, dear father, true female 
heroism ? For fighting your battles you have probably men 
enough. 



12 

Count St6dail- — it is enough, dear child, that you are 
now hear, and my days in the future may have their bright 
moments too. We will endeavor to entwine some roses among 
the laurels. If you are not fatigued from the effects of your 
long journej^, go into this room {Opening side door.) and 
dress yourself, then step out on the barracks porch and witness 
a grand review about to take place, 

Heloise. — My good father. (Exit Heloise Z>. L.) 

Count Stedan. — {Goes and sits at Table L. Enter 
Count Z>., D. R. F.) Debanoff, I have a plan in which I think 
we can gain many frienris for Russia from among those Cir- 
cassians, with whom we are fighting. Prince Mansur Arslan, 
our alley, as you are aware, is one of the most influential of 
all the Circassians ; through him I think we can gain over to 
the Russian interests several of the princes' of Abazok and 
the Kabarda, who now reside in the western boundry ; the 
river divides their territory from that of the Shapzuks. Their 
Prince can muster 6000 men, and with them has kept up a 
partial independence, enough at least to prevent us from 
erecting forts on his domain. He has an influence with all 
the Abazoks, and, in fact, I may say, it is felt throughout the 
entire Circassian country. I have, through the Prince, sent 
an invitation to these princess to assemble at his tent — the 
metting takes place in a few moments. My object is to in- 
duce these semi-independent princes to sign a treaty by which 
the}^ will become first vassels of the Czar, and secondly, to 
draw from them by strategem and pursuasion the right to en- 
list troops in their domains to replemish our army. As this 
will be a grand, though barbaric display, 3^ou will proceed to 
the Countess Waldeck and inform her of the expected assem- 
age, and that I wish her to ride in a coach and six that 
will be at the door in a few minutes, to a point at which I am 
to witness the reception. {Exit Count D, Set D. L.) 

These Oriental warriors are fond of rich dresses and dis- 



13 

play. I intend if possible by marks of distinction, greater 
than they expect, to secure them as powerful allies, I will 
flatter their vanit}^. I do hope Heloise will not fail to appre- 
ciate the importance of her position on this occasion, short 
time as she has had to prepare, for a Countess of Germany 
and the daughter of the general in command will necessary 
attract attention. After the parade is over we will break 
camp. {Flourish.) 

{Exit G. S., D. B, F. Enter Baroness D. L.) 

Baroness* — His Highness — not here — gone. His 
daughter is frantic because he is not at the review. Oh, my, 
such sights, and the Prince Mansur, the Circassian, how hand- 
some. I must go back. [Goes to window.) Oh, there is the 
General now on his horse riding up the main street. I can't 
stay her, or it will be over before I get there. {Exit 5,, D, 
L,) After a pause martial music playing for some minutes. 
Enter Prince Mansur D. B. F.) 

Prince* — Well, the great parade and reception is over. 
These Circassian friends of ours from abroad, tall, slender 
men, with their loose, full garments, seated so gracefully on 
their splended coursers, appears as if they had spent 
their lives on horseback. They made a grand dis 
play, but to me the greatest point of attraction was the 
daughter of the General. She looked inexpressibly fine in her 
beautiful rich dress, hat and plume, from which floated a veil 
of fairy texture which gave to her form the appearance of per- 
fect lovliness. 

I will go to the great General and tell him that if I can 
possess, as a wife, his lovel}^ daughter, my grand palace shall 
be her home, millions at her disposal, scores of servants shall 
do her bidding, and the proud Circassian Prince Monsur 
Arslan shall be her obedient servant. (Exit Prince D. B. F. 
Heloise and Baroness set C, L,) 



14 

Baroness* — My lady, did you notice when the great 
General, 3^our father, touched his hat to you by way of salute, 
and the officers and Circassians followed his example, how 
Prince Monsur's eye fell upon you and remained fixed ? 

Heloise. — Yes, there was such an indescrible fire in his 
glance that I was so much embarrassed I involuntarily 
dropped my veil over my face. And yet there was nothing 
insolent in his gaze — it lasted but a moment. 

Baroness. — Oh, Countess, they were flashes of light- 
ning that came from his eye, he looked, my gracious countess, 
just as if he wanted to eat you up. These heathens have tender 
hearts, too, but look, my lady, if he was the Sultan himself I 
wouldn't consider him good enough for you. 

Helose. — {Laughing.) Baroness, you must not flatter 
me. If the Prince is so handsome why has he not ere this 
been married ? 

Baroness. — Oh, he is a Prince, and wants to marry a 
Christian Princess, not a Muscovite, or the daughier of a 
nobleman beneath his rank. {Enter Count 2>., R, Z>. F..^ fol- 
lowed by the Prince,) 

Count Dabanoff. — My lady Countess, having obtained 
permission of General Count Stedan for the Prince to pay his 
respects to the daughter of our great General, I have the 
honor to present him. The Prince is a Christian and an ally 
of the Czar, and has materially aided your father in coming 
to a peaceful understanding with many of the Princes of the 
Circassian tribes. 

Heloise. — I am happy to welcome you as a Christian 
Prince. 



Prince- — Countess, as the son of the Czar, I am 
Christian, but it is a religion of war and suffering. 



a 



15 

Heloise. — I have been taught that it is the religion of 
peace and reconciliation, Prince. 

Prince. — Do not Christian Princes war against each 
other, Countess ? 

Heloise. — Would to heaven that they would better 
obey the precepts of their religion. 

Prince* — Do you not think, Countess, that St. George 
was a good Christian ? And do not all pictures represent him 
as fighting and killing ? 

Heloise. — Fighting with monsters— killing dragon. 

PrinC©. — Perhaps the painters meant the monsters of 
oppression, the dragons of extortion and official rapacity. 
{Looking at her seriously?) Ah, Countess, do your best to 
put a stop to this destructive war. 

Heloise. — Good heavens ! Prince, what could I do ? 

Prince. — Beauty is all powerful in the east as well as in 
the west. 

Heloise. — I did not know that the Oriental knights 
practiced gallantry. 

Prince. — From the lips of an Oriental, that is senti- 
ment, which is practeced as gallantry in the west. 

Heloise. — Beauty is not the best of us, Prince, it is but 
a transient uncertain treasure — it is our sex, our weakness 
which must be honored, and we only respect a man so far as 
he does this. 

Prince. — Perhaps you know, fair Countess, that it was 
a woman, one from whom the race of my mother derives its 



16 

origin, that first introduced Christianity among these moun- 
tains, and what one woman laid the foundation for, would it 
be impossible for another to build and complete ? One who 
is surely lovlier than Tamar could ever have been. And now, 
fair CountesSj hoping that we become friends in the near 
future, I will withdraw. {Bowing,) Adieu.. 

Count Dabanoff. — Adieu, Countess. 

Heloise. — Au reviorl 

{Exit Prince and Count Debanoff D. H, F, Enter Count 
Stedan^ set Z>. L. Martial music for some minutes,) 

Count Stedan. — Well, Heloise, how are you satisfied 
with your day's work? Prom what I hear you understand not 
only how to spin yarns but to weave nets to capture young 
lions ; really the Order of St. Catharine cannot escape you, 
or the large Cross of St. George, for I believe you have cap- 
tured one of the chief fortresses, which may lead to an incal- 
culable benefit to the Czar. I hardly thought when you ar- 
rived here that you would so soon have been useful to us, but 
when you came gliding among us like a selph sprung from 
another world, or as if a white lily had come to life and sud- 
denly been endowed with lips and eyes, it would have been 
impossible for any one to resist you. The young lion, as he 
is called, can be securely bound. His wealth and influence 
are almost without limit. 

Heloise. — Father, I do not understand you. 

Count Stedan* — No, can it have escaped your notice, 
that you have made a conquest of Prince Mansur ? 

Heloise* — I nave noticed that his heart, which probably 
takes fire very easily, has been kindled, but what is that to 
us ? The flame will die away as quickly as it rose* 



11 

Count Stedan — Hardly. Particularly if we stir the 
fire awhile. 

Heloise. — What good would that do you, father, even 
were it honorable ? 

Count Stedan* — Oh, so you don't like him, Heloise. 

Heloise. — Like him ? I think, father, he maj^ be a noble 
man, and might be a great man, and I would wish that you 
could make those brave men your friends and the friends of 
your Emperor. 

Count Stedan. — That is just what I would do. But 
you do not like this young lion ? 

Heloise. — What do you mean by liking him, father. If 
I should judge rightly, it is out of the question. 

Count Stedan.-- Why so, Heloise ? 

HelO ise. — Why, father, you could not think of giving 
me to a barbarian. You cannot be in earnest. It does not 
follow that because a man is brave, that he is a fit companion 
for a woman of cultivation, the daughter of a German noble- 
man. 

Count Stedan. — What difference does that make 
Heloise ? You are the daughter of a P rincess and may have 
to take up with a nobleman, if you do not take up with a Cir- 
cassian P rince. Royal suitors are not to be found every day. 

Heloise. — No, father, no. You cannot mean to sacri- 
fice your child thus ? 

Count Stedan. — You need not fear, my little jewel, fit 
to adorn a crown, this Prince loves you, and he hopes he can 
secure you for a wife, but, no matter, it will be good for him 
to be kept for a while in this bold belief. 



18 

Heloise, — Father, would that be honorable? Would 
it even be humane to let him fall a victim to such a delusion ? 

C. Stedail- — I would explain the true state of things to 
him in due time. 

Heloise. — Rather, he would discover the chea^, the de- 
ception, in a short time, and then he woujd be your enemy. 
I shall tell the Prince that I never could love him, that no 
power on earth could induce me to give him my hand. 

Count Stedan — (Rising.) It is growing late. I re- 
quire nothing of you, no dissimulation, no advances. Be with 
him as cold, as distant as you wish, only do not uncalled for 
and with childish hands meddle with my web so as to tangle 
the ahreads. You are exalted in your ideas, and I love you 
the more for the purity, which so becomes a woman. {Kisses 
her forehead,) I will tell the Prince that if he wins your love, 
it is well, if not, I am content. (Exit Count Stedan D, R, F. 
Flourish,) 

Heloise. — Why should my father attempt to make of 
me a politician or diplomatist ? I came here for no purpose 
of this kind. I suppose the Czar is well supplied with such 
people, and I have no disposition to participate in any affairs 
of state. Should the Prince visit me, courtesy, of course, 
demands tnat he shall receive treatment corresponding with 
his rank, but for me to give him any encouragement that I 
will marry him. Never ! 

(Enter Prince (7. D.) 

Prince* — (Going up to Heloise, kisses her hand and seat- 
ing himself on a divan alongside of her. ) I see you are de- 
pressed and sad, Countess. I could hate myself for feeling so 
happy. 

Heloise. — Perhaps Prince, I have better cause for sad- 
ness than you for joy. 



19 

Prince. — 7/no^, itis not the same cause. It is your 
father, Countess, who has made me happy. 

Heloise. — It is he who has made me sad. We can have 
but a few minutes, let us emplo}^ them in the strictest 
sincerity. 

Prince- — What can be more sincere than my fervent 
burning love? 

Heloise. — My time is short, I cannot be delicate and 
womanl}^ as I wish to be. I cannot appreciate the gift of 
your noble hearfc. I do not love you. I can never be your 
wife ! 

Prince. — Each of your words is a dagger to my heart* 
I love you doubly for this sincerity. 

Heloise. — But 3^ou cannot wish to marry a woman who 
does not love 3^ou. 

Prince* — My love will conquer 3^our hatred. 

Heloise. — Do not deceive yourself. I do not hate 
you, but I can never g've you my hand. 

Prince. — I have your father s word. 

Heloise. — My father may answer for what he does, but 
you are too gi^nerous to desire that he should force me. 

Prince. — You are too good a daughter to be disobedi- 
ent to a father. 

Helose. — Well, Prince, you drive me to the utmost. I 
must tell you. My hearfc belongs to another. 

Prince. — Who is he? {Excitedly.) He Jives no more 



20 

if my arm can reach him. ( With great earnestness,) Countess, 
you shall never belong to another. 

Heloise. — '^Never belong to another!" What insolence. 
I will never belong to you^ Prince. Do you think a free-born 
German Countess will ever submit to Oriental despotism? No ! 
Not even to please a father. Leave me — Oo, {Pointing to the 
door.) (Exit Prince C. D.) 

CURTAIN. 



HELOISE, 



OR, 



THE UNREVEALED SECRET. 



FIVE ACTS. 



A.CT V 



PHILADELPHIA. 
1882. 



HELOISE; 

OR, 

THE UNREVEALED SECRET. 



CHARACTERS IN ACT V: 

Names : 

HELOISE.— 
BARONESS- 
FELIX.-. 
PRINCE- 
COUNT STEDAN.— 
COUNT DABANOFF.— 
CAPTAIN POTTWISKA.— 



ACT V. 



SCENE I. — In the first groove snow landscape. Enter Count DabanofF R. 
L. E. and Captain Pottwiska L. I. E., saluting. 



Count Dabanoff.— "Captain, is your company of Cos- 
sacks in good condition and ready for marching ? 

Captain P* — Count, my company is always ready for 
marching orders. 

Count D. — I am about to confide to your care the 
dearest treasure on earth. No less than the Countess of 
Waldeck, the daughter of our General, Count Stedan. This 
camp is about to be removed. You are, with your company 
and such other force as you may consider necessary, to escort 
her with entire safety to Ghelenstick, the fortress on the 
Black Sea, where it is intended that she, with her attendants, 
shall remain in safety until another camp is fixed upon, when 
she will return to her father. The General has informed the 
Countess that you and your company are brave and faithful. 
You know the country is very dangerous and infested with 
Circassians, who are both cunning and active. The utmost 
vigilence will, therefore, be necessary to faithfully discharge 
your mission. 

Captain P. — Fear nothing. Count, they are not likeh' 
to cut off both my arms at the same time, and as long as I can 



hold a sword in my left hand, the robbers shall not take even 
a hand-box from her ladyship^ 

Count D. — I know I can depend upon your bravery, 
Captain, but you must be cautious also, for these bandits 
come upon us like a thief in the night. There will also go in 
the same direction a corps of Russians acting as an escort to a 
German nobleman, who yesterday visited our field of opera- 
tions. This body, by the General's orders, are to keep within 
hailing distance of your command, so that if either be attacked 
aid can be given by the other. 

Captain P* — Trust to me, Count. Only over my corpse 
shall a hair of her head be touched. 

Count D. — {Hands paper,) Your command will start 
at once, so adieu. Captain, and may God give you strength 
to perform your duty and protect your charge. 

{Salute each other and exit Count Dabanoff L. L E.) 

Captain P. — (Opens paper,) The course I am to pur- 
sue is along the Northern Cuban shore. The journey will be 
considerably shortened by this, as we will cross the Cuban 
river sooner than if we went by the usual route. Here we will 
cross the mountain by the side path, not far from the Russian 
fortress Aboun, in the valley of that name. On this road 
many a torrent has to be crossed, the rocky bed of many a 
swollen stream has to be passed over, where the carriage of 
the Countess can only be held up by the supporting pikes of 
the Cossacks. The way is b}'- no means free from danger, for it 
is inhabited by the Shapguks, the most treacherous of all the 
Circassian tribes. Travellers can see from the road their vil- 
lages bordered with gardens. I suppose the reason why we 
are ordered to take this route is to enable the Countess to 
reach the fortress before the camp will break up. My com- 
pany is well drilled, and danger is by no means a new thing 
to us. 

{Exit 5. L E.) 



SCENE II. — Snow wood scene full stage. Battle, drums rol- 
ling. Guns Firing at intervals. Enter Heloise and party 
of Cossacks B. U. E. Volley fired outside B. U. E. Exit 
Heloise L. V. E. and Cossacks. Enter Circassian, fight- 
with Prince dressed as Circassian at their head, Prince 
fighting with commander of Cossacks and kills him. Exit 
Prince. Victory of Circassians. Betreat of Cossacks. 
Circassians pursueing Prince. Prince enters L. U. E. 
with Heloise, pursued by Bussians headed by Felix, who 
fights with Prince and shoots him, rescues Heloise^ takes 
centre. Tablaue. Firing all through the scene. Drums, 
etc. Count D. holds flag over Heloise and Felix. Bed 
fire. 



-o- 



Felix. — Heloise, my own Heloise. 

Heloise. — Felix, Felix, is it you ? ( Throws her arm^ 
around his ncek, 

CURTAIN. 



LIBRPRY OF CONGRESS 



II 




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